This crinoid specimen is a well-preserved example of the Scyphocrinites elegans from the Upper Silurian period (420 million years old). It originates from Morocco and measures around 6" x 7". The stem of this specimen is likely a combination of multiple stems from another specimen.
Crinoids, also known as sea lilies, have been observed since the Ordovician period, displaying their rooted stems and numerous armored arms used for filtering food from the ocean. These fascinating creatures still thrive in modern times.
This impressive crinoid specimen was carefully excavated in Erfoud, Morocco. The quarry workers dug vertically 16 feet deep before reaching the crinoid layer, after which they manually created a tunnel along it. All of the excavated material, including rock, dirt, and crinoid slabs, was then transported to the surface in baskets and pieced together to create this stunning plate. The meticulous process involved in bringing this exquisite specimen to market is truly a labor of expertise and dedication.